There are four things that are essential for the growth and development of all Christians. All these are in this passage, and all must be worked at by us. None of these is more important than any others. They appear in no particular order.
- Prayer. (v. 24) There are several things to note about the prayer of these Christians. First of all, it was their response to the great adversity that they were facing. God was their first thought. In addition, the content of their prayer should be very instructive to us. They did not pray against their enemies, or even that the persecutions would stop. They prayed that the gospel would go forward and that they would have boldness, even in the face of difficulties.
- Fellowship. (v.32) One of the most important things that you can do for your Christian life is to spend it with other Christians. Other Christians will give you different perspectives on your faith. They will encourage you to grow in faith, live a more holy life and be closer to God. Additionally, they will help you to avoid temptation and sin. Remember that these earliest Christians were fellowshipping and worshiping daily.
- Bible Study. (v. 33) Although this passage does not specifically exhort us to read and study the Bible, the precedent is definitely here. The Christians all listened to, paid attention to, devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles. The apostles eventually wrote those teachings which were compiled into what we now call the Bible.
- Ministry. (v. 34) The culmination of the Christian experience was- and still is- service to others. This manifests itself in many ways. The examples in the Bible include feeding the hungry, ministering healing to the sick, visiting prisoners and sharing with the poor. All of these are essential for us to be obedient to God. But not only that, when we serve Christ through ministry, our Christian experience is accelerated. We grow more quickly than ever.
3 comments:
Is it accurate to say that these four things are all of equal importance? Which are most important to you? Which ones do you struggle with? What steps should you take to grow in faith?
Yes, I believe all four are essential. For me, fellowship would be my "favorite" I just love being with other believers ! Bible study is not quite as easy, but I strive to be in the Bible daily. Ministry is something I need to work on. Prayer is for me, the most important and the area I need to work on most. I need to hear God talk to me. I need to be open to hear Him all the time. It is that "attitude of prayer" I believe I need to have at all times. That is what I am going to strive to do today.
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